The partner, Jasper Wireless, will handle functions such as provisioning and billing for these new devices so consumers can connect the devices and choose a billing plan right after purchase. The company will also handle these functions for M2M (machine-to-machine) uses of AT&T's network, such as wireless sensors and meters.

Critics have said AT&T, like other major U.S. carriers, has been too slow in opening up its wireless network to devices and applications it doesn't sell. Apple's iPhone and App Store, which run in the U.S. exclusively on AT&T's network, kicked off a proliferation of third-party software for phones, but access to the big carriers' networks is still mostly limited to their handsets. Meanwhile, consumers are starting to look for widespread wireless connectivity for a variety of other devices.

AT&T formed a group last November to work on getting new types of devices on its network. It's turning to Jasper to speed up that process by setting up specialized service plans and monitoring connected devices in the field.

"By doing this with them, we're going to be able to do this very, very quickly," said Glenn Lurie, president of emerging devices at AT&T Mobility. AT&T already has deals with several manufacturers, but most of them are still under wraps, he said.

When customers buy phones from AT&T or another mobile operator, typically they have to sign up for service at the carrier's store, get a credit check, receive or port a phone number, and then start getting service.